When Chris Seals first read his father Cleveland’s post-retirement dream to launch a whiskey distillery in Austin—the city’s first since Prohibition—he was skeptical. But what started as a risky idea turned into a globally recognized whiskey brand that’s deeply rooted in Austin's creative spirit. In this episode of the Changing Austin podcast by Amplify Credit Union, Chief Experience Officer Stacy Armijo sits down with Seals, co-founder and CEO of Still Austin Whiskey Co., for a spirited conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation and, of course, whiskey.
Seals shares how building strong relationships with local farmers, emphasizing sustainable practices and honoring Austin’s boundary-pushing energy have helped Still Austin grow from a startup to a leader in the craft spirits industry. He also talks about what's next for the brand and why he’s focused on making Still Austin a 100-year company.
Whether you're a fan of small-batch bourbon, fascinated by Austin business stories or passionate about local makers, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Texas’ most successful and authentic whiskey brands.
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What is Still Austin Whiskey Co.
Before Still Austin, you’d have to turn the clock back to Prohibition to find another Austin-based distillery. But since its launch in 2015, Still Austin has been a trailblazer for the Texas spirits scene, becoming one of the best-selling whiskey companies here in Texas. Still Austin is proud to be one of the only distilleries in Texas to source grains from local farmers, distilled ecologically in-house, and aged here in Austin.
Type: Beverage Manufacturing
Founded: 2015
Location: 440 East St. Elmo Road
Mission: To craft the most exquisite Texas bourbon whiskey.
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